Aksaray

Aksaray

General Information About Aksaray

In the Central Anatolia Region, where the northern and southern Anatolian mountains diverge, Aksaray is located between 38-39 north parallels and 33-35 east meridians in the Central Anatolia Region and in the northern hemisphere. Kırşehir and Ankara in the north, Nevşehir in the east, Niğde in the southeast, Konya in the northwest, Tuz There is a lake. Aksaray, 7997 km2 of surface area, Turkey occupies approximately 10%. Turkey in general not necessarily the ranking is 39th. Aksaray is 980 m above sea level.

Climate

Aksaray Province is in the middle climate zone and has a cold, continental climate type. Summers are hot and dry, winters are cold and rainy. Rainfall is usually seen in the spring and winter months. Average amount of precipitation (last 40 years) is 340 mm (kg / m²). Temperature differences between summer and winter and day and night are very high. In the summer months, the humidity is low and the amount of evaporation is high due to the low temperature and wind force. Snowmelt causes floods and landslides in the spring months. Total Daily Highest Rainfall: 65.8 kg / m² (29.10.1998) - Daily Fastest Wind: 165.6 km / h (12.03.1968) - Highest Snow: 45.0 cm

Flora

Depending on the climate of Aksaray, the natural vegetation, greening meadows in spring, poppy, chamomile, keven and other etc. They are semi-xerotic plants with grasses and thorny leaves. Since the climate is hot and dry in summers, the grasses that grow in spring become dry in autumn and the land takes on a steppe structure. As tree species; There are species such as oak, cedar, larch, acacia, almond, and aylantus. There are oak groves on Hasandağı and Ekecik Mountains.

Economic Structure

in the middle of Central Anatolia, north-south, located at the intersection of highways in the east-west direction, in 1989, re-provinces of Aksaray, domestic and producing out of goods and services and continuing to produce, Turkey 's of becoming industrial capital in Anatolia moving towards its goal. The steps taken by Aksaray industry towards growth will bring the development in our city to the highest level and unemployment to the lowest level, and it will become a province that receives immigration from neighboring provinces. 7% of Aksaray's economically active population, which is estimated to be 150 thousand people between the ages of 15-64, is employed in the industrial sector. The remaining part of this population works in the agriculture and services sector. Aksaray, being one of the First Degree Priority Provinces in Development in 1998, with the advantages of these priorities and supports such as incentive measures, as an attraction center that has become even more developing and receiving immigration, is getting ready for the years that progress with its industry and economy. The number of 132 industrial parcels in the Organized Industrial Zone became 141 by making allotments and unions in line with the demands of the investors. In addition to 141 factories being established on 141 parcels on an area of ​​4 ha and 290 ha, which joined the region in 1997, 10 thousand people will be employed if the factories built by the private sector are completed and put into service. Thus, a large part of our economically active population will be employed in the industrial sector. With these works put into service and production starts, Aksaray will become a province that sells its own products domestically and abroad, not a consumer. Its resources, available facilities, private sector facilities and state investments under construction will carry Aksaray to the top in the industry as in some sectors. On the contrary, Aksaray is the only province that receives immigration, whose population increases day by day and does not emigrate to neighboring provinces.

Aksaray Districts

Sarıyahşi: Sarıyahşi district in the north of Aksaray Province has an area of ​​approximately 224 km². The altitude of the district is 1.092 meters, its population is 5615 and its distance to the city center is 110 km. There are 1 town and 5 villages in the district center. The district is located on the edge of Hirfanlı Dam.

Ağaçören: Ağaçören district is located in the south east of the central Kızılırmak part of the Central Anatolia region. It has an area of ​​approximately 318 km². The total area of ​​the district is 385,000 hectares, and its altitude is approximately 1100 m. Its population is 5.132. It consists of 1 town, 27 villages and 8 neighborhoods.

Eskil: Eskil is located in the west of Aksaray Province and has an area of ​​approximately 1152 km2. Eskil is generally established on a flat plain in the south of Salt Lake, 67 km from Aksaray. From Eşmekaya town of the district at 50th km of Aksaray-Konya state highway; Eskil district center is located at 67th km of Aksaray Cihanbeyli road towards north. The altitude of the district is 939 m. There are 11 neighborhoods and 11 villages connected to the district.

Güzelyurt: Today, the "ANALİPSİS HILL", known as the "High Church", and the abundant obsidian stone axes and ceramic pieces in its vicinity indicate that "Chalcolithic Age" people lived in the region. B.C. We understand that the Hittites have lived since 2000 from the castle ruins on Kulaklı Tepe on the Sivrihisar road in Güzelyurt and the walls on which the church on Analipsis Hill sits. The region where Güzelyurt is located, BC. VI. century joined the Persian Empire. In the occupation of the region by Alexander the Great, they did not bow to Alexander and accepted one of the Persian nobles as king. B.C. They established the Kingdom of Cappadocia in 332. B.C. 17th century. The region also joined the territory of the Roman Empire. However, the rule of the king's religious leaders (priests) continued, albeit with a decline, until the 2nd century A.D. At that time, among the people who were slaves, St. The Christianity that Paul brought to the region began to spread rapidly. Christianity received great reaction in the first years. Until it was accepted as the official religion by the empire, those who believed in this religion hid in places such as Güzelyurt and its surroundings, Ihlara (Peristrema) Valley and Soğanlı.

Gregorius Teologos from Güzelyurt and Basilus of Kayseri have become the founders of the Orthodox sect in time, with the ideas they put forward together, and consequently, the first monastic life started in Güzelyurt. A church was built by Emperor Teodosius in Güzelyurt in 385 in the name of Gregorius Teologos. We understand from some letters that the first definite information about Güzelyurt is that Gregorius was a landlord and that he belonged to the Ipsistario sect in the beginning. Father Gregorius became Bishop of Nazianzos after converting to Christianity.

The pressure of the novel on religion caused the Iconoclast movement to begin. During this period, the religious system that Saint Gregorios put forward was so strong that the region got rid of this movement unscathed and became a shelter for Christian clergymen against the Iconoclast movement.

XII. Seljuks, who dominated Anatolia in the century, granted some privileges in order to prevent the migration of Greeks who knew how to cultivate the soil well. Thus, Christian and Muslim people started to live together. Located in Belisırma, St. The Georges (Forty Damaltı) Church is a good example. In the fresco here, Basil Güyakupos, who was the governor of the region at that time, was depicted in Turkish clothes and in the inscription of the fresco, Sultan II. Mesut is mentioned as "a very high and very noble sultan".

Güzelyurt, which came under Ottoman rule in 1470, became the land of the Eratna and Karaman principalities for a while, and was also invaded by Mongols during this time. During the Ottoman period, the Christian population in Güzelyurt was always higher than the Muslim population settled here during the Seljuk period until the Lausanne Treaty. Güzelyurt is a Greek village, which has been coming for a long time and continues its cultural traditions.Greeks who went to Greece with the exchange of 1924, Kavala They established a new village called "Nea Kalvari" nearby and built the same church in Güzelyurt there and established a museum where the sacred items they took from here are exhibited. Today, migrants and still survivors and their children and grandchildren come to Güzelyurt and are welcomed with a festive atmosphere. With the immigration of the Greeks, Turkish immigrants from Greece were also settled in the houses left by the Greeks.

Güzelyurt and its environs gather all the characteristics of the well-known Cappadocia region today. Manastir Valley is a good example of the surface shapes of Cappadocia region such as “Fairy Chimneys, Goreme, Zelve” around the Ihlara Valley Analipsis hill, with water and willow trees located between high rocks on both sides. In Güzelyurt, which has a volcanic structure in geological terms, there are many recreation areas and beautiful views.

Ortaköy: The district is 55 km from Aksaray. away from the East; In the west of Gülşehir, connected to Nevşehir Province; In the south of Ağaçören district of Aksaray Province; In Aksaray Province and its North; It is surrounded by the Kirsehir Province. Its population; district center; 18,506 towns and villages; It is 21,193 and 39,699 in total. Its area is 750 km² and its altitude is; 1140 m.

Gülağaç: Gülağaç The county located in the east of Aksaray Province has an area of ​​approximately 5291 km². Derinkuyu district of Nevşehir province to the east; Aksaray central district to the west; Ortaköy district in the north and Güzelyurt district in the south. The altitude of the district is 1,170 meters, the population is 20,594, and the distance to the city center is 32 km. Currently, there are 5 towns and 8 villages of our district. The only hill in the district is Nenezi hill.

Aksaray Transportation

Airline: There is no airport in our city. The closest airport to our city is Nevşehir Cappadocia airport, which is 74 km away.

Highway: Aksaray is on the E-90 highway, at the junction point of the Silk Road tour route and the main connection roads of east-west, south-north. The distance of our city to neighboring provinces and some big city centers by road: Aksaray - Ankara 225 km. Aksaray - Adana 265 Km. Aksaray - Mersin 258 Km. Aksaray - Konya 148 Km. Aksaray - Istanbul 674 Km. Aksaray - İzmir 692 Km. Aksaray - Niğde 123 Km. Aksaray - Nevsehir 75 Km. Aksaray Terminal Phone: 0382 215 85 85

Aksaray Land Forms and Information

Salt: [Lake], Turkey's 2.büyük in Aksaray lake in the Salt Lake (2400 km²) is no lake.

Kayı: [Lake], Kayı Lake is a small but very cute Tatlısu pond, which is formed by cutting the front of the Karasu River with a dam, its depth is a little more than 4 meters.

Ihlara: [Valley], its length is 11 km. It has a depth of 100-200 meters in places.

Mamasın: [Dam Lake] is in the village of Mamasun and removes the city's mains water.

Kılıçarslan: [The Valley] starts from Kılıçarslan Park to Mamasun Dam and its length is 20 km. dir.

Narlı: [Lake], around the lake there are rock-carved places, fairy chimneys and thermal springs. Narlıgöl, which is a popular destination for fishermen and bicycle lovers in summer, awaits its visitors.

Melendiz: [The river] reaches the Mamasın Dam by entering the valley between the steep slopes covered with poplar trees on both sides, through the Melendiz River, Ihlara Town, drawing meanders in the south-north direction.

Küçük Hasan: [Mountain], Küçük Hasandağı 3040m. and is located next to Hasandağı.

Monastery: [Valley], Manastır Valley, water and willow trees between high rocks on both sides, as well as many churches, there are “Fairy chimneys,” around the Ihlara Valley Analipsis hill.

Sofular: [Valley], Sofular Valley is an extension of the Cappadocia Region in terms of general character, and it looks like the continuation of Aksaray-Ihlara-Derinkuyu Valley.

Hasandağı: [Mountain], 3268m. Hasandağı, the second highest mountain in Central Anatolia with its height, is a volcano mountain. It is covered with an oak forest up to 1750 m.

Ekecik: [Mountain], Ekecik Mountain 2033m. and oak groves are found on it.

Aksaray history

B.C. From Çatal mound near Konya, where we saw the first traces of the Anatolian civilization in the Neolithic period between 7000-6000, there are remains of Hasandağı, therefore Aksaray. Here, an excavation painting depicting Hasandağ's lava spraying was found. During the Neolithic period, Aksaray and its surroundings were inhabited. Although it is not known whether there was settlement during the Chalcolithic and old iron ages, ceramics belonging to this period were found in the surrounding villages (Böget and Koçaş).

B.C. The Hatti tribe lived in Anatolia between the years 3000-2000. During this period, Assyrian traders made trade here. We learn about the situation of Aksaray in the first and Middle Bronze periods from the excavations carried out in the ruins of Acemhöyük and the ancient artifacts purchased by the museum directorate. During this period, Assyrian merchants came from Mesopotamia and started to establish trade centers in the suburbs of the cities. Assyrian merchants knew the script. Texts written on cooked clay were pasted over by consolidating the clay. Mound B.C. It has been inhabited since 3000. The brightest periods of Acemhöyük hit the first half of 2000 BC.

Towards the end of the colonial periods, BC. We see the existence of a tribe from the Caucasus, who founded small city-states in 1700, in Anatolia as a military state. The state that this Indo-European tribe established by seizing the political power in Anatolia is the old Hittite State. Although there are no works belonging to the Hittites in Aksaray, among the defeated countries, Aksaray is also named.

Aksaray was conquered by the Seljuks in 1142 and remained under the rule of Ilhanli, Danismentli and Karamanogullari until the Ottoman rule in 1470.

Aksaray has remained under the rule of Hittite, Persian, Hellenistic Period (Alexander the Great), Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman from past to present. Aksaray, which was a sanjak of Konya until the Republic period, became a province in 1920, it was declared a province in 1933 and became a district of Niğde and became a province again on June 15, 1989.

It is believed that the name of Aksaray was "Nenessa (Nenossos)" mentioned in the old Hittite texts. B.C. Aksaray, which was called Sinakhatum - Shinukhtu in the period of King Kiakki in the 1st millennium BC, was attached to the Cappadocia Kingdom in the Hellenistic period and its name was Arkhelais, which was Garsaura. During the Seljuk period, II. Its name was changed from Arkhelais to Aksaray by Kılıçarslan and became the second capital. It is referred to as “Şehr-i Süleha”, which means the place where good people live because bad people are not allowed in the city.

Old Stone Age

People around Aksaray most likely lived from the Paleolithic (Chipped Stone / Old Stone Age) Age. The most important indication that people lived in Aksaray during the Paleolithic Age (600.000-10.000 BC) is the presence of chipped stone obsidian tools of "Mousterian" and "Aurignacian" character gathered around Güzelyurt. There are also traces of this period in places close to Aksaray. For example, old tools and weapons (scraper tools) which are thought to belong to Lower Paleolithic were found near Tuz Gölü in the northeast of Ş.

Neolithic, Chalcolithic and Bronze Age

Aksaray is one of our rare cities that has been inhabited since the Neolithic Age (Polished Stone). Therefore, the history of Aksaray starts from the Neolithic Age. In the Neolithic Age, we see that people established the first settlements in Aşıklıhöyük (Kızılkaya Village). Aşıklı Höyük is a settlement area with a hunter-gatherer tradition but a settled and agricultural community. Aşıklı Höyük is a place where the life style from 8500 BC to 7000 BC, and therefore the cultural development of the Middle Anatolia without pottery, the Neolithic Age is followed in detail. Apart from Aşıklı Höyük, there are many pottery or pottery Neolithic settlements in Aksaray. Pigeon Rock is the most important settlement area in Aksaray belonging to the Chalcolithic period (5900-3200 BC), where copper mine was used increasingly in the production of tools and equipment such as tools and weapons. Another settlement area of ​​this period is Güzelyurt / Gelveri Yüksek Church. In the Bronze Age, the most important settlement area around Aksaray is Acemhöyük, which was settled as Pruşhattum, and it is known that the settlement here started in 3000 BC.

Hittites

After the Assyrian Colonial Age, which was stated to cover the years 1900-1800 BC or 1900-1750, the Hittite rule began in the Aksaray region (1750-1200 BC). The Hittites established a central state in Anatolia towards the end of the colonial period. One of the cities they have ruled in Anatolia is Pruşhattum (Yeşilova). From the Hittite written documents to Aksaray; It is indicated with a question mark that it was called Shinakhuttum (Shinuktu) in the ancient Assyrian period (2112 BC). II. In the time of Sargon, the name of this place is referred to as Sinuhtu. In a written document about the Hittites, it is stated that the name Aksaray is mentioned as Kurşaura (Kursaura). According to another statement from which W. Ramsay is referenced, which confirms this statement, the city known as Garsaura in ancient times is accepted to be the same place as Karşaura (Karsaura / Kurşaura), one of the important Hittite centers in 3000 BC. Hittite period materials were found in many mounds such as Sungurlu, Celtek, Ersele and Tepesidelik around Aksaray belonging to the Hittite period.

Late Hittites

After the Hittite State collapsed, Late Hittites (1200-700 BC) emerged in Central and Southeastern Anatolia. One of the areas dominated by the Late Hittites is Aksaray and its surroundings. It is certain that there were many residential areas in Aksaray and its vicinity belonging to this period. We can understand this from the inscriptions of this period.

One of these inscriptions is the Siyek Inscription of King Hartapuş in Gücünkaya Village in Aksaray. Considering the Aksaray-Konya connection, it is certain that the Hartapuş mentioned here is related to King Hartapuş, who was the ruler of the Late Hittite period Konya-Karaman region. Another of the most important finds from the Hittites is the Hittite Hieroglyphic Inscription Stele on basalt stone.

Phrygian (Phrygian) Domination

BC 8. The kings of the Phrygians, who managed to establish a central government in the second half of the century, during the Midas period, or in other words, during the period when the Phryg State was strong, the Aksaray region was under the influence of this state, the King of Sinuhtu City (Aksaray) and the King of Tabal against Assyria. It is clearly seen that it was supported by the Phrygians in its activities. In addition, seeing the Phrygian style in some of the works in Göllü Dağ and obtaining documents regarding the use of Phrygian confirms the above statements. Most of the old caves in Ihlara, Belisırma and Yaprakhisar in Aksaray were carved and made for the Mother Goddesses of the Phrygians.

Lydian Kingdom

Instead of the Phrygian State, which collapsed during the Cimmerian invasion, Lydians, who had previously lived under their sovereignty, established a state and thus dominated Central Anatolia and therefore Aksaray. After the war between Med King Kyaksares and Lydian King Alyattes, Kızılırmak was accepted as the border between Meds and Lydians. Aksaray, which is to the west of Kızılırmak, remained within the borders of Lydia.

Persian Domination

At the end of the wars between the Persians and the Lydians, supported by the King of Cappadocia, the Persian King Kyros. In 547 BC he captured the capital of the Lydians, Sardes. Thus, the Lydian State came to an end, and the Aksaray region fell under the rule of the Persian Empire. The Persian Empire divided the land into satraps (provinces). The name of the satrapy, which includes Aksaray, is Kappadokia Satrap. Almost all Central Anatolia was connected to this satrapy. Dara (Dareios) divided Cappadocia into Greater Kappadokia and Pont Kappadokia. Over time, these were reunited. They also settled in Cappadocia, which was under Persian rule. The first reason for this is; the continental climate of the plateau here, as in Iran, and the vast pastures and religious beliefs in the form of Zoroastrianism and the cult of fire. The famous "King's Road", extending to Sard and Sus and used starting from the era of Darius I and passing through the lands of Archelais (Aksaray), was an important commercial route developed during the Persians' time.

Eastern Roman Influence

The date of AD 395, when Theodosius the Great divided the Roman lands between his two sons Arcadius and Honarius, is regarded as the foundation date of the Eastern Roman Empire, which will later be called Byzantium. Thus, based on the date of 17 AD, when Kappadokia joined the Roman lands as a state, 313 years until 330 AD, when the Roman center moved to Istanbul, and 65 years from 330 AD to 395, when the Roman Empire split into two. For 375 years, Cappadocia remained under the rule of the Roman Empire.

Although it is said that Aksaray and its environs remained in the hands of the Abbasids for 160 years and in 357/965, the Byzantine Emperor Fokas captured Aksaray, Ereğli, Karaman, Adana, Misis (Massisa) and Antalya, which were in the hands of the Abbasids with a strong army, and took these places under the re-administration. It is not possible for Aksaray to remain in the hands of the Abbasids for 160 years. Since Tuvanuva (Kemerhisar) has changed hands several times, the region where Aksaray is located must have changed hands, although it is not known for sure. The Abbasids have begun to decline now. Phokas (Fokas) eliminated the Arab danger as a result of his capture of Cilicia and the victories of Tzismiskes in Syria and Mesopotamia. The Byzantine border was taken back to the Euphrates, and a large part of Syria was again under Byzantine rule.

IX. From the second half of the century until 1071, Byzantine Cappadocia had its golden year. Most of the churches and pictorial decorations in the region were made during this period. We see this situation in churches and monasteries in Aksaray territory.

During the Alparslan period (1062-1072), commanders such as Afşin, Ahmet Şah, Emir Sanduk entered Lyconia (Karaman) State and plundered and destroyed the center of Anatolika Themi (Konya). The famous commander Afşin took most of the cities of Cappadocia, especially Kayseri. Although the name Aksaray is not mentioned here, when we consider its proximity to Konya, it may be thought that they also visit this region. The expressions in which the name Aksaray is mentioned are related to Süleyman Şah and the first of these belongs to Ibn-ul-Azrak and is as follows: “Melik Süleyman came from Melikşah and conquered Malatya, Kayseri, Aksaray (White City), Konya, Sivas and all Greeks. it has dominated them. " The second one belongs to Ibn al-Atheer. In the narration of the events of the year 477 / 1084-85 in his work, Aksaray is as follows: “Süleyman B. Kutalmış, the ruler of Konya, Aksaray and its environs in Enedil (Bilâd-ı Rum), marched to Syria this year and conquered Antioch in Syrian lands. Antakya was in the hands of the Greeks since 358 / 968-969. " According to this statement, Süleyman Shah was the ruler of Aksaray in 1084-1085.

There is not enough information about the first times of the Seljuks. This is due to the darkness of our history at that time. That's why some events are mixed up. Therefore, there is no exact information about the conquest of Aksaray. For example; While in the work titled Cappadocia, it is stated that “In 1076 Kutalmış son Süleyman Bey joined the Anatolian Seljuk rule”; İbrahim Hakkı, in his work about Aksaray of Konyalı, "In the early days of the Anatolian Seljuks, Aksaray was in the hands of the Danişmendliler." In another part of his work, "Archelais is one of the places conquered by the Danişmendli Gazi." It is called. Again, according to another work about Aksaray, while Danişmend Ahmet Gazi was mentioned, "It took all of Cappadocia. Meanwhile, he still conquered Aksaray, whose name is Archelais. "

During the Danişmend expedition of Seljuk Sultan Rükneddin Mesud, Aksaray passed into the hands of the Seljuks. However, the name Aksaray or Archelais is not mentioned in the History of Amasya, which gives information about the places Danişmendoğlu has. In addition, historian Hazarfen has the impression that 479/1087 Danişmendoğlu captured the regions of Cappadocia, which would become his own territory after the death of Süleyman.

In conclusion, contrary to the above statements, there was no certainty that Aksaray was in the hands of the Danishmends in the early days, and that Süleyman Şah extended his dominance to Central Anatolia (Cappadocia), coastal regions and all Asian (Anatolian) provinces before the Antakya campaign. and the fact that he appointed governors (nâib) to these regions shows that Aksaray was in the hands of Süleyman Şah, not Danişmendoğlu.

There are two important events that concern Aksaray in the 1st Kılıçaslan period, who took the lead after the death of Süleyman Şah. The first is the battle of Hasan Bey in Hasandağı, during the crusaders who took Iznik on June 16, 1097 and continued their forward march, split into two in Ereğli and marched towards Kayseri. Although the Crusaders suffered a lot of casualties in these clashes with bloody scenes, their forward movements could not be prevented.

Aksaray; It is the most famous settlement that Turks established in the middle of Anatolia, on the road to the east after Konya became the center. This city is XII. It was built in the second quarter of the century, during the reign of Rükneddin Mesud. According to this statement, Aksaray has come to the fore since the reign of Mesud I. Kılıçaslan was in Aksaray as a melik during his father's time; It is understood from the expressions on the pulpit of the Grand Mosque. The emergence of Aksaray, II. It was during the sultanate of Kılıçaslan. Kılıçaslan established the city of Aksaray at the beginning of his reign. The following is written about Aksaray in today's Turkish in the book "Tarih-i Âl-i Selçuk Der Anadolu" in Persian:

"In 550, the reign of the son of Mesud Kılıçaslan ... He made Aksaray in the early days of his reign. Caravanserais established markets. "

In his statement about the name of the city of Aksaray in Baykara, "Although there are compulsions that the name comes from Garsaura, the direct meaning of the White House is clear and certain. he says. The name Aksaray is also expressed as Taxara or To Axsara, but this name is nothing more than Aksaray pronounced in Greek.

Some of the events that took place in Aksaray and its surroundings are:

One of the Turkish chieftains, Ilyas, seized the great Alaiye Khan (Sultanhani) and rebelled against the Mongols and the Mongols besieged it to capture it.

Memreşoğlu, who left the Karaman people, took refuge in Sultanhanı and that is why the Karamanoğulları attacked here.

Şenkitoğlu, who is based on the Mongolian commander İrencin, fought with Ali Pasha, one of the notables of Aksaray. As a result, Ali Pasha and his friends who took shelter in Selime Castle and many people in Aksaray were killed.

It is Şenkitoğlu's killing of Memreshoglu in Aksaray and his wealth plundered. Different dates are given regarding the collapse of the Seljuks. The dates given for this are: 1304, 1308 and 1318.

Karamanoğulları, under the rule of Musa Bey, took advantage of the struggle between Mongols and occupied Konya in 1320. But after Timurtaş criticized the rebels in Anatolia, he saved Konya. Prof. Dr. Faruk Sümer also said "Timurtaş took Konya again in H.720 (M 1320)." He confirms the previous statement.

Ottoman Period

According to Nişancı, Aksaray was taken by the Ottomans following the conquest of Egrıboz and in his own words it is as follows: "The Sultan sent his triumphant sherry to Karaman this year (H.874). They conquered Niğde, Aksaray, Ermenek and İçel. " As he stated that it was within the same year, Aksaray was taken by İshak Pasha in H. 874 (1469-1470).

All the cities and castles of the Karamanoğulları, therefore Aksaray also passed to the Ottomans and Karamanoğlu Kasım Bey was obliged to hide.

Aksaray, which Fatih definitely added to the Ottoman Country, has now become the Aksaray province of the newly established Karaman Province. However, in subsequent records, this situation was expressed as Aksaray Sancak and Aksaray Livası. When Şehzade Mustafa, who was the ruler of the Karaman lands, died, Prince Cem was appointed to replace him.

The Ottomans, who annexed the province of Karaman in H.881 (M.1476), determined the foundations of the cities belonging to this region. One of the cities with foundations detected is Aksaray Province in Karaman Province.

Although there were many incidents regarding Aksaray during the Ottoman period, we will be content with only a few of them. For example, one of them is about Aksaraylı Pir Mehmed Pasha. Pir Mehmed Pasha, vizier when Yavuz was a treasurer in the Çaldıran War with Iran; He was also a vizier in Egypt expedition.

Another is the exiles to Cyprus. In this exile in 1572, 228 families from Aksaray District were exiled.

Another event related to this period is that Ibrahim Bey, son of Mehmed Ali Pasha, who rebelled against the Ottoman Empire, sent a decree to the Aksaray Naibi when he defeated the Ottoman armies. This decree was written on the 29th day of Jumada-el-ula of 1248/1833 AH. From this edict, it is understood that Aksaray was subject to the Egyptian Governor Mehmet Ali Pasha, who rebelled against the Ottoman Empire.

Aksaray, which was located on important trade routes such as the King's Road and Silk Road, has seen great benefits. This has lost its importance since the Classical Period of the Ottoman Empire. Although there are many reasons for this, the most important two are; The Western policy of the Ottomans gained weight and at the end of the 16th century, trade routes moved out of the Mediterranean to the Atlantic. Apart from these, the loss of importance of the inner road passing through Aksaray; Factors such as the aggravation of the conditions of the wars at the end of the XVII century and at the beginning of the XVIII century were effective.

In the Ottoman records, Aksaray, which was given the status of province after its conquest, was given the title of sanjak.

Aksaray in the War of Independence

Patriotic people, thinking about the plight of the country after the disintegration of the Ottoman Empire and the beginning of the occupation of Anatolia, were holding congresses while making the occupation of the country with rallies. With the congresses held in Amasya, Erzurum, Sivas, Balıkesir, Aksaray and Denizli, efforts were made to appropriate the idea of ​​national struggle to the country and to create the necessary military and administrative organizations to defend the country with weapons. In the meantime, a significant change was made in the administrative status of Aksaray and the 14th anniversary of the establishment was made on 1336/14 September 1920, with the decision of the B. Assembly of the Assembly, and the accidents of Koçhisar and Araps were reported.

The people of Aksaray did not spare any sacrifices to win the National Struggle. While the financial aid collected for various needs was sent to the front, many people of Aksaray went to fight the enemy on the front. The people of Aksaray gave 344 martyrs in this war. It will be seen that this number given by Aksaray in the War of Independence is very large when compared with the other provinces and districts.

HISTORY OF VILAYET FORMATION

Aksaray, which was connected to Niğde as an accident with a law enacted in 1933, could not accept this. Because in terms of population, land, and development, it is higher than the province of Niğde. Moreover, its geographical location is more favorable.

Niğde was elected as a deputy and T.B.M.M. Every Aksaray citizen who took office in Aksaray, declared their desire to become a province throughout the country with their bills. The first major study on this subject was carried out by Aksaraylı Oğuz Demir TÜZÜN, who is a Deputy of Niğde. Oğuz Demir TÜZÜN states that Aksaray will become a province again with a law proposal he made on 01.04.1964. However, the proposal submitted to the National Assembly together with the Adana Deputy Kemal SARIİBRAHİMOĞLU's annotation remained in the parliamentary files, while the second attempt made in 1971 was inconclusive.

Aksaray deputies Raşit DALDAL and Mahmut ÖZTÜRK, who entered the parliament as Niğde Deputies after the 1987 general elections, work on the same subject. They want Aksaray to be made a province with their bills of law. With the support of Ankara Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Mehmet ALTINSOY, the draft, which was discussed and accepted in the National Assembly, was enacted on 15.06.1989 with the number 3578 and Aksaray regained its longing after 56 years.

After Aksaray became the province in 1989, the first Governor was Rıdvan YENİŞEN. After Rıdvan YENİŞEN, Ferit ÜNAL, Aslan YILDIRIM, Cahit KIRAÇ, Emir DURMAZ, Kadir ÇALIŞICI, Hüseyin Avni COŞ, Sebati BUYURAN, Orhan ÂLİMOĞLU and Selami ALTINOK served as Aksaray Governors, the Council of Ministers dated 16/02/2014 and 2014/5916. Şeref ATAKLI has been appointed as the Governor of Aksaray. Governor Şeref ATAKLI still carries out this duty.

WHERE DID THE NAME OF AKSARAY COME FROM?

Every village, every city's name in history has a story whether it is true, rumor, or legend. Many rumors and legends are told about the name of Aksaray. Its first name is thought to be "Nenessa (Nenossos)" mentioned in the ancient Hittite texts belonging to Hattusili I. B.C. In 718, the New Assyrian king II. Sargon started a Tabal expedition against Kiaki of Shinukhtu, who stopped paying taxes and collaborated with Muşkil Mita (Phrygian king Midas) and Kargamış King Pisiris. The name of this city, which is thought to be near Aksaray, is mentioned as Sinakhatum in ancient Assyrian texts. As a result of the expedition, the rule of Kiaki ended, and the city of Shinukhtu was left under the rule of the Athenian Kurti. Hittite hieroglyph stele located in Aksaray Center also supports that Aksaray was the city of Shinukhtu in the Late Hittite period.

When the Persians invaded the region, they gave this region the name "CAPPADOCIA", which means "Land of beautiful horses". Known as "Garsaura", Aksaray was born in BC. In 42 BC, Archelais, the last King of Cappadocia, named it "Kolonea-Archelais" in reference to his name. It is observed that this name changed to "Taxara" in the Middle Ages and the Byzantine Period. In the oldest Selcuknames, the words "Aksera, Aksara" were used as the name of the city. Because of the great saints raised in Aksaray, its other name is "Şehr-i Süleha". Evliya Çelebi described this city as “Piga Helena” in his travel book.

The rumors regarding the name of “Aksaray” are as follows;

Dar-base-Victory

During the Crusades II. Kılıçarslan considers establishing a military base outside the capital city of Konya. For this, he chooses today's Aksaray. The city with solid walls, madrasah, mosque, hospital, covered bazaar, etc. ornaments with public buildings. He stops by Aksaray on every victory return, and starts the festivities here. He gives the city the name "DAR - ÜS - ZAFER", meaning "Victory Country".

City-i-Suleha

Kılıçarslan loves this place so much that he makes a decree that malicious people cannot enter this city. The perpetrator will be headed immediately. According to Evliya Çelebiln, for this purpose, she had two bronze lion statues built on both sides of the entrance door of the palace. They watch over the city, and when malicious people enter the city, the lions burn them with their mouths and ash them. For this reason, Aksaray, where the good, righteous and righteous live, was named "ŞEHR-İ SÜLEHA", which means "Home of the good", "City of the Righteous".

Places to visit in Aksaray

Ihlara Valley

We can call Ihlara Valley, one of the most beautiful valleys in the world, the entrance gate of Cappadocia. As the Melendiz Stream passes through the valley, whose name was known as "Peristremma" in the history, it turns its nature into a hidden paradise where fruits hang from its trees and fish play in its waters. Surrounded by steep rocks like a wall, you come across a green strip covered with gardens and gardens in the valley, whose depth reaches almost 120 meters.

While you feel the effect of a continental climate in the upper parts of the valley, you suddenly enter the Mediterranean climate when you come down. The valley, formed by the centuries-long river erosion in the area that collapsed with the lava eruption of Hasan Mountain, became the shelter of the first Christians with its isolated image that isolates itself from the outside world. Dozens of churches carved into rocks, many frescoes with scenes from the Bible make this valley a place known to the world as a treasure of history. In this valley that starts from Ihlara and continues for 14 km until Selime, the history is M.S. It begins in the 4th century. Its churches immerse you in its centuries-old magic.

Although there are 105 religious buildings in the valley, only 14 of them can be visited today. Some of these churches are;

Ağaçaltı Church

The entrance of Ağaçaltı Church, one of the magnificent Ihlara Valley churches, is under the ground. When you want to visit the free cross planned church, you can enter it from the second floor. Do not be disappointed by the frescoes in the church. You can still see some of the scenes from the Bible with Christian depictions such as the ascension of Jesus Christ, the apostles and prophets. Although the church has succumbed to time, it is still a magical atmosphere today. You will see the Ağaçaltı Church descending the stairs at the entrance to the valley.

Karagedik Church

The church, which foreigners call Saint Ermolaos and us Karagedik, rises on a steep rock. XI. The church, which is thought to have been built in the 19th century, is one of the places we will call it a tour while descending into the valley with its Closed Greek Cross architecture reflecting Byzantine art and its frescoes, most of which have been destroyed.

Kırkdamaltı Church

According to the inscription on the construction date of the church in Belisırma Village in Güzelyurt district, it is between 1283 and 1295. On the walls of the church built by the Georgian Princess Tamara, it is possible to see the scenes of the Ascension of Jesus Christ, his crucifixion and the Virgin Mary.

Hyacinth Church

Sümbüllü Church, one of the most beautiful churches in the valley, is thought to be part of a monastery complex. The date of construction is the XI. –XII. It is estimated to be centuries. The church part has a rectangular plan, the part that is considered to be a monastery is a two-storey structure carved into the rocks, between the angels of Michael and Gabriel Hz. You will see frescoes featuring the Virgin Mary, saints and scenes from the Bible.

Pürenli Seki Church

XI. with the beginning of the century XII. There are tombs on the Narteks floor of the church, where you will see the Prophet Jesus and the Virgin Mary, saints, short stories from the Bible in the frescoes dating back to the 19th century. Frescoes are still vital and still excellent.

Ala Church

The church belonging to the early periods of Christianity is one of the secret shrines carved from the rocks, like every church in Ihlara. You will see biblical depictions such as the birth of the Prophet Jesus, the Egyptian Mary, The Last Supper on the frescoes of the church, which establishes earthly connections with small entrances and windows.

Bahattin Samanlığı Church

While the value of historical values ​​is not known exactly, the church, which was used as a haystack for a period in the 1950s, is located in Belisırma Village, within the borders of Ihlara Valley. Although it is not known exactly when the church was built, X - XI. It is estimated that it could have been built between centuries. The frescoes of the church are still in good condition, and portraits of the life of the Prophet Jesus, Peter and Gabriel and scenes from the Bible are depicted.

Serpent Church

The Serpent Church takes its name from the depiction of four women bitten by snakes on the west wall. The story in the description is quite exemplary. The first woman leaves her child, the second does not feed her children, the third is the slanderer, and the fourth is the woman who acts disobediently. One of the Ihlara churches to see and visit.

Bezirhane

Bezirhane is the place where the linseed structure used in lighting in ancient times was produced. The oil extracted from Izgin grass collected from the mountains was used in underground cities, churches and homes.

You will see Bezirhane carved into the rocks in Belisırma Village right next to Ala Church. Inside the building, which has an arched entrance, there is a linseed oil pool made of wood. The building dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries.

Selime Cathedral and Fairy Chimneys

Selime town, which is the starting point of Ihlara Valley, is connected to Güzelyurt. The town, which used to be a market area according to historical documents, was therefore always a crowded and always active spot. The cathedral, which was built for the caravans to rest and the passengers to worship, and the monastery where the clergy was raised, are still important even after centuries have passed. Selime, with its rock churches, shelters and tombs reflecting Byzantine art, is one of Aksaray's "must see" places.

Ziga Hot Springs

The hot springs in Yaprakhisar Village of the Güzelyurt district of Aksaray are among the most beautiful spots of a fascinating geography with its history and nature. Ziga thermal springs, where you will be defeated with physical and spiritual calmness, have a water temperature of 47 degrees and they are good for many diseases from gynecological diseases to rheumatism. There are not many facilities in the region, because this is in the protected area and construction is not allowed.

Zinciriye Madrasa and Aksaray Museum

Zinciriye Madrasah, built with a fine architecture made of cut stone, decorated with floral motifs in the Seljuk style, has been restored from time to time and is still intact, still impressive. The Zinciriye Madrasah, dating back to the 15th century, from the Karamanoğulları period, is now a museum and carries traces of many Anatolian civilizations. What? Neolithic Age, Chalcolithic Age, Roman, Hellenistic, Phrygian, Byzantine eras and of course Turkish civilizations… Among the 15 thousand historical pieces, there are clothing items, carpets, weapons and money that reflect the culture of the region. The museum is located in the center of Aksaray in Zincirli Mahallesi. Be sure to travel, meet the cultures of many unique civilizations.

Monastery Valley

With the enchantment of the prayers of the monks and the saints, Manastir Valley is the place where Christianity, especially the Orthodox sect philosophy spread to Anatolia. The valley to the east of Aksaray is located in Güzelyurt. In this magical place, which stretches for 4.5 km, there are nearly fifty monasteries and churches carved into rocks. At the entrance of the valley, there is an underground city dating to the Byzantine period. Get ready to go on a long historical journey while visiting the Manastir Valley.

Sultan Han

It is said that Sultan Han, located on the road between Konya and Aksaray, was built by Alaettin Keykubat in 1229 during the Seljuk period. Spreading over a giant area of ​​5000 square meters, the building is also the largest caravanserai in Anatolia. When you enter through the 13-meter, very flamboyant entrance door with its architecture bearing the Byzantine period, a mosque in the middle welcomes you. There is a small market to the right. Do not leave Aksaray without stopping by Sultan Han, where you will feel like a passenger who has crossed the Silk Road.

Curve Minaret

Due to the curvature of Italy like the world famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, the structure called "Eğri Minaret" is also known as "Red Minaret" because it is made of red bricks. The construction date of this minaret, which you will recognize from its silhouette while walking around the center of Aksaray, dates back to the Seljuk Sultanate period and it is estimated that it was built by Alaaddin Keykubat's father, Sultan Keyhüsrev I, between 1221 and 1236. The mosque you will see next to it is one of the structures built much later. Stand in front of him and take a picture.

St. Gregorius Church

The church, which is an early Christian work in Güzelyurt district, was built by M.S. It is thought to have been built in 385. The bell of the octagonal cross-planned church was later transformed into a minaret and used as a mosque. Despite this transformation, the building, which is still important for the Orthodox, has a special place in the structure, which is one of the most beautiful works of wood carving, painted with madder, and Wooden Anbon sent by the Russian Tsar Nikola. Right next to this historical building, which the term "Church Mosque" will describe more accurately, is the holy spring that descends through a 35-step staircase.

Bell Church

Çanlı Church, located 17 km from the center of Aksaray, in Akhisar Village, is famous for its children's mummies. This church is also one of the places where you can take the best panoramic photos because it is on a hill directly opposite Hasan Mountain. The church, which is one of the most beautiful examples of Byzantine art, spread over a wide area around the X. and XIV. There are also rock settlements of the century. Inside the church you will find frescoes depicting the Prophet Jesus, stories from the Bible, and His Apostles.

Pasha Turkish Bath

Among the places to visit in Aksaray, you will see this building located in the city center, right next to the exit after visiting Zinciriye Madrasa. Pasha Bath, built in the second half of the 19th century, was built by the Ottoman Sultan II. It was built by Hacı Ali Pasha from Ortaköy, the secretary of Abdülhamid. The work, which has 6 domes and is made of cut stone, still serves as women's and men's baths in two parts.

Asikli Mound

Aşıklı Höyük is located in Kızılkaya Village, 4.5 kilometers away, very close to Ihlara Valley, one of the most beautiful valleys of our country and the world, in the Cappadocia region. The distance of the mound to Aksaray is 25 kilometers. It is known that Aşıklı, which has a history of 10,000 years on the banks of the Melendiz River, is the first settlement of Cappadocia, which was established in the Neolithic Age, without any pottery. The fact that there are traces of surgery on